Abhyanga, otherwise known as ayurvedic massage, is a broad term that means any kind of ayurvedic massage, of which there are a few different types including full-body massage, head massage (shiro abhyanga), or foot massage (pad abhyanga).
Abhyanga is considered such a significantly beneficial therapy, that it’s recommended daily - especially for the elderly, those with more air & ether in their constitution (vata dosha) and for those experiencing stress, anxiety & insomnia to name a few.
Excellent for pain relief and healing, abhyanga is usually characterised by a specific sequence of strokes including long, sweeping movements using copious amounts of warm, herbal oils suitable for the individual. Different types of abhyanga can use herbal powders, herbal pastes or ghee.